DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, aka Will Smith, said it best, “It’s summer, time to sit back and relax.” Whether you’re looking forward to festivals, concerts at Red Rocks or the annual City Park Jazz series, we’re here to bring you some out-of-the-box ideas for perfectly paired treats and drinks from local artisans and restaurants that you can take with you on a relaxing day in the sun or a romantic evening under the stars.

Sweet treats

We know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Our first carefully selected alfresco basket is for all the early birds. Izzio Bakery and Bakery Four are great additions to any al fresco inspired breakfast. Choose from a delicious muffins, croissants, scones and viral La Roulettes with Izzio. Head to the Denver Zoo early for a day of family fun, made even more memorable by stopping at Bakery Four along the way to pick up a few of their Pop tarts, Pain au jambon or morning rolls enjoy.

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For night owls, late-night snackers and late-night date nights, the stars aren’t the only thing providing light in the dark. Whenever you decide to eat, here are some suggestions that will make a great addition to an evening spent outdoors. Check out the aromatic non-alcoholic sweet teas from Sweets by Shavon, a favorite vendor at the Rebel Marketplace Farmer’s Market for those who discover its booth. We tried Peach cake with sweet tea and it was a perfectly balanced mix of sweet and savory that will make you wonder how she did it. Another sweet treat you will enjoy are French macaroons AND sugar cookies you’ll find at Twinkle Treats. Now we know what you’re thinking. How can sugar cookies earn you date points? Well, Twinkle’s Treats offers personalized sugar cookies. With planning and a little creativity, you can get a little sugar.

Aperitif

If packing a cooler and heading to a music festival or outdoor concert this summer is more your style, here’s how to dine al fresco without the Tupperware brigade. Wander + Graze is one of our suggestions for creating a fun outdoor dining experience that you can share with loved ones or maybe strangers you meet along the way. It offers options that will fit your group size and dietary needs. It includes a standard charcuterie board, but ups the ante with Rainbow Board which is characterized by a colorful mixture of fruits, meats, cheeses and sauces, Appetizer boardAND Box of bread and crackers and more.

If you feel like having a special evening with your best friends or you are looking for an idea for your next date that will surely charm your partner – start your weekend by planning a group meeting introductory wine course at Bonacquisti Wine, then take home a few of your favorite drinks with your garden dinner. If you’re looking for a healthier cocktail option that can be kept in the fridge, check out the options offered by Beauty Booze. If you’re not familiar, Beauty Booze is made in Golden, CO and was founded by local entrepreneur Amanda Moran. These cocktails offer a light and refreshing way to enjoy a cocktail without the added sugar. Their Clementine Paloma Splash, Kiss of pomegranate and elderflower AND Moscow Mule Fizz are perfect for al fresco dining. Nothing says girls’ dinner like a glass of wine and bread. In addition to sweet treats, Bakery Four also bakes killer breads like herb buns and olive fougasse.

Pair your new spirits with a home dining experience from a private chef like Chef Jeff G. Stoneking or Chef Elizabeth Fritzler, who will ensure your dining experience is perfectly tailored. To make it even more special, add a few floral arrangements from Black & Blossomed for a tablescape that’s sure to make your neighbors come outside to check it out.

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When planning your summer activities, we hope that creating an outdoor dining experience for your family and friends is among them. There are many options that make planning easy, fun, and delicious for everyone. When searching for food and drinks to put in your cart, be sure to think outside the box and consider checking out local artisan bakeries and farmers markets to find and create your own selection of food and drink options to enjoy.

*Note: When visiting festivals, concerts or parks, be sure to check the venues’ websites for policies regarding bringing in outside food and alcohol..